Condom is a thin rubber or plastic sheath worn over the penis during sexual intercourse. It is used as a method of contraception. Contraception is the prevention of conception or pregnancy. Sperm are trapped inside the condom. The condom is later discarded.
Condoms also provide protection against sexually transmitted diseases, such as AIDS, chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis. Health authorities recommend that a condom be used every time sexual intercourse occurs with a person who is infected with HIV. HIV—_h_uman _i_mmunodeficiency _v_irus—is the virus that causes AIDS. Authorities also recommend using a condom with partners whose infection status is unknown.
See also AIDS (Prevention) ; Pregnancy ; Sexually transmitted disease .
